Virgin Islands Soil Surveys
Virgin Islands has 1 USDA soil survey areas covering a wide range of landscapes and soil conditions. The most common soil order is Mollisols — grassland soils with a thick, dark, fertile topsoil rich in organic matter, making up roughly 61% of surveyed soils. Inceptisols — young soils with minimal horizon development but more than Entisols account for another 17%.
In terms of drainage, 95% of Virgin Islands soils are classified as well drained. Drainage class affects everything from septic system design to basement feasibility to garden planning. Use the survey area pages below to see drainage details for specific counties, or look up any address for an exact soil profile.
Soil Types
Mollisols
61% of surveyed soils
Fertile grassland soils with thick, dark topsoil. Among the best for agriculture, building, and gardening.
Inceptisols
17% of surveyed soils
Young but developing soils found in mountains and river terraces. Variable properties — check drainage and bedrock depth.
Entisols
10% of surveyed soils
Young soils with little development — found on floodplains, dunes, and steep slopes. Properties vary widely by setting.
Vertisols
4% of surveyed soils
High-clay soils that shrink and swell dramatically. Fertile but challenging for foundations and septic systems.
Alfisols
4% of surveyed soils
Moderately weathered forest soils with clay-enriched subsoil. Productive for agriculture, generally good for building and septic.